When you post on LinkedIn and hear crickets instead of engagement, it can feel like a punch to the gut. You invest time and energy crafting content you believe is valuable, yet the visibility just isn’t there. And full transparency it occasionally happens me too. I try something and it falls completly flat. It’s part of learning. But, if you’re feeling like your posts are floating in the abyss of the LinkedIn feed, it’s time for an algorithm boost.
Let’s delve into why you might not be getting seen and what you can do to remedy this situation.
Understanding the LinkedIn Algorithm
LinkedIn’s algorithm is a complex beast, designed to filter content and prioritise what users see in their feeds. At its core, the algorithm aims to create a relevant and engaging experience, pushing quality content to the forefront that is going to connect with your audience. Not LinkedIn’s entire audience, but the ones LinkedIn feels will and should be engaging with you. If your posts aren’t getting the love they deserve, it’s likely because they’re not aligned with what the algorithm wants.
The Algorithm’s Secret Sauce
The algorithm takes several factors into account when determining what to show users. Here are some key elements that could impact your visibility:
- Engagement History: The algorithm considers your past interactions. If your posts primarily get emoji reactions from your close friends rather than substantial engagement from a wider audience, it’s not helping you get seen. But here’s the twist: if you start posting content that resonates beyond your immediate circle, you can expand your reach and draw in new connections. Diversifying your engagement will signal to the algorithm that your content is worth sharing with more people.
- Content Type: Different types of content perform differently. Video tends to get more engagement than static posts, while articles may not gain traction unless they’re shared widely. If you’re sticking to text-only posts, you might be missing out on the engagement that comes from video. The positive spin? By mixing in video content, you can attract more views and keep your audience engaged longer, improving your chances of being favoured by the algorithm.
- Timeliness: Recent posts get priority. If you’re posting when your audience is most active, your content stands a better chance of being seen. However, posting without considering your audience’s online habits is a surefire way to fade into obscurity. Take the time to analyse when your connections are online, and schedule your posts accordingly. This effort pays off as more users will engage with your content, giving the algorithm more reason to promote it.
- User Interaction: The more people interact with your content, the more likely it is to be seen by a broader audience. If your posts fail to spark discussion or receive comments, it could indicate to the algorithm that your content lacks relevance. But here’s the silver lining: by creating thought-provoking content and encouraging discussions, you can significantly enhance your post’s visibility and invite a broader audience into your conversations.
Why You’re Not Getting Seen
If you’re struggling to gain visibility, you may be falling victim to one or more common pitfalls:
- Generic Content: If your posts lack personality or depth, users may scroll past without engaging. It’s easy to fall into the trap of sharing generic tips or boilerplate advice. But consider this: sharing your unique insights and experiences not only makes you relatable but also distinguishes you from the crowd. People crave authenticity, so be bold, share your insights, and let your unique voice shine through.
- Inconsistent Posting: If you only post sporadically, your audience may forget about you. One-off posts that don’t build upon previous content are unlikely to create lasting impressions. Establishing a consistent posting schedule not only keeps your audience engaged but also builds familiarity. Think of it as a relationship where consistency breeds trust, and trust encourages engagement.
- Neglecting Engagement: If you’re not interacting with others, why should they interact with you? One-way communication leads to a dead end. If your posts don’t invite feedback or fail to encourage conversation, you risk being ignored. The good news? Actively engaging with others’ content fosters reciprocity. By commenting on posts, asking questions, and being genuinely interested in others, you create a vibrant community that boosts your visibility. I try to set aside a few hours every week just for commenting on other peoples posts.
How to Fix It: Strategies for an Algorithm Boost
Now that you know why you’re not getting seen, it’s time to flip the script and make the algorithm work for you. Here are some actionable strategies to improve your visibility on LinkedIn:
- Create Engaging Content: Focus on producing content that sparks conversation. If your posts are merely informational without encouraging dialogue, they may not capture attention. Ask thought-provoking questions, share opinions, and invite your audience to share their thoughts. Remember, the more engagement your content generates, the more likely the algorithm will promote it. Consider using video to convey your message, as it’s one of the most engaging formats available.
- Be Consistent: Establish a regular posting schedule. Aim for at least a few times a week to keep your audience engaged and your name top of mind. If you disappear for long stretches, your audience may lose interest. Regular posting keeps you on their radar and establishes a routine. Trust me, your audience will appreciate the consistency, and it will work in your favour when the algorithm is evaluating your content.
- Join and Engage in Groups: LinkedIn groups are a goldmine for networking and visibility. Joining groups relevant to your industry not only allows you to share your expertise but also helps you connect with like-minded professionals. If you’re lurking in groups without contributing, you’re missing out on potential visibility. Contribute meaningfully, share your content where appropriate, and foster discussions. This can help you reach new audiences who share your interests and elevate your profile.
- Utilise LinkedIn’s Native Video: LinkedIn prioritises video content in the feed, so leverage this feature. However, simply uploading a video doesn’t guarantee success. If your video looks unprofessional or lacks value, it will likely be ignored. Create videos that showcase your expertise, share industry insights, or discuss trends. Aim for videos under 60 seconds to grab attention quickly. Quality matters, so invest the time and effort to create engaging video content that resonates with your audience.
- Encourage Conversations: End your posts with a call to action. If your posts are one-sided and don’t invite interaction, you’re missing an opportunity for engagement. Ask for opinions, invite feedback, or pose thought-provoking questions. This not only encourages engagement but also signals to the algorithm that your post is worth promoting. When users comment, they’re not just engaging with your content, they’re amplifying it to their network.
- Analyse Your Performance: Use LinkedIn’s analytics tools to track the performance of your posts. If you’re posting without reviewing the metrics, you might be stuck in a cycle of trial and error. Identify what works and what doesn’t, and adjust your strategy accordingly. This data-driven approach can provide valuable insights into how to improve your content. Plus, it allows you to focus on what truly resonates with your audience, leading to greater visibility and engagement.
The Power of Authenticity
Ultimately, authenticity is your strongest asset on LinkedIn. People want to connect with real individuals, not faceless brands. If you’re only showcasing your successes without acknowledging the struggles, you risk coming off as disingenuous. Share your experiences, challenges, and successes. However, always tie it back to your skills and expertise in the area you’re selling. This ensures that your audience can see what you offer now while also feeling a connection to your journey.
By being open and genuine, you can foster deeper connections that lead to higher engagement. When your audience feels they know you, they are more likely to engage with your content, which in turn boosts your visibility.
Conclusion
Understanding how to navigate LinkedIn’s algorithm is essential for getting seen. By creating engaging content, being consistent, and fostering genuine connections, you can significantly improve your visibility on the platform.
With these strategies, you’re not just chasing the algorithm boost, you’re building a community that values your insights and expertise. So go out there, embrace the power of video, and make your mark on LinkedIn. Remember, the algorithm is not an enemy; it’s a tool that, when used effectively, can help you amplify your voice and connect with the audience you deserve.